Rejoinder to “Brief history of Dimasa”: Correcting distortion

Apropos to the recently published article “Brief History of Dimasa,” in the Nagaland Post daily on 18/08/2025, presents a self-fashioned account that would erase the rich indigenous legacy of the Dimasa people. Relying on uncorroborated oral anecdotes, this article fundamentally misrepresents the true origins and identity of Dimasa people. More concerning is the author’s apparent ignorance of the extensive archaeological numismatic, epigraphic, and written records that thoroughly document Dimasa history. The article claims that the Dimasa were adopted sons of the Zeme, having originally come as Burmans who migrated into place called Temaki valley. This is a significant distortion of history. Contrary to the claims made by the writer, the Dimasa are not Burmans, and substantial rich material evidences robustly contradicts this assertion.
Factual corrections: Dimasa are not Burmans
The Dimasa are recognized as one of the earliest ethnic communities of Northeast India, with a long-established presence in the region. The well-documented historical records and archaeological evidence show that the Dimasa kingdom’s capitals were Dimapur, and later at Maibang (not Peren or Temaki valley as implied in the article), and their rulers were from the Dimasa lineage (distinct from any Burman ancestry). The Dimasa monuments including an elaborate gateways dating back to the 9th-10th century at Dimapur demonstrated a sophisticated urban planning and architecture. The carved stoned pillars showcase unique craftmanship among Dimasa not found elsewhere in Asia. The Ahom chronicles (buranjis) recorded multiple military encounters between Ahoms and Dimasa soldiers at Dimapur from 1490 onwards, establishing Dimasa presence centuries before any alleged Burman migration.
Likewise, epigraphic and numismatics evidences document Dimasa rule at Maibang. These stone inscriptions and multiple coins issued by different rulers from Maibang period clearly establish Dimasa kings as belonging to Dimasa clan, not Burman lineage. In the early 19th century, when the first Anglo-Burmese War (1824-26) broke out, Dimasa kingdom’s capital was based at Cachar. Dimasa rulers actively fought against Burmans occupation of Cachar during this conflict, allying with the British soldiers. Had Dimasas originated from Burman migrants, their opposition to Burman expansion would be historically inexplicable.
Colonial-era records, archaeological surveys and scholarly analysis provides a detailed account of Dimasa history. British administrative records have detailed documentation of Dimasa kingdom; including treaty records and administrative documents clearly identifying Dimasa rulers and their territories.
Conclusion: Upholding the Truth
The article’s portrayal of the Dimasa people as Burman migrants is historically unfounded and misleading rests on unverified anecdotes. Such alleged claim overlooks a wide range of archaeological, numismatic and written evidences documenting Dimasa history. It is critical for communities, writers, and researchers to uphold the truth, resist revisionist narratives, and respect the integrity of established historical facts.
(Let all discussions about our heritage be guided by honesty, rigor and respect for the historical facts – crucial to preserving the legacy and dignity of one’s community’s past)
Issued by Dimasa Naisho Hosom, Dhansiripar
Sub-division,Chumoukedima